91 year old former RAF co-pilot Alan Wilkes is enjoying his new lifestyle at Russell Lodge in Fleet, Hampshire which has allowed him to live independently but still be close enough to see his daughter regularly. Alan, who had been living in Warefield in Berkshire for 15 years, was starting to find his detached property with gardens too much to maintain so decided it was time to move.
Alan comments, “I had many happy years in my home in Warefield but the large garden and size of the house was starting to become too much. My daughter Debbie also lives in Fleet so we both felt it would be a good idea to move nearer to her so that she could see me more regularly. A friend had seen details of Churchill Retirement Living building a new development in Fleet and suggested I take a look.
“We visited the development and really liked the location. I am now unable to drive so its central location and proximity to the shops made it an ideal choice. I chose a two bedroom apartment and am very pleased with it.”
Alan’s daughter Debbie is also delighted he has made the move. Debbie says, “The location of Russell Lodge was very important to us as I wanted him to be near me in Fleet but also be able to get out and about independently. We also felt that moving to a retirement development would give us peace of mind and the knowledge that he is safe and secure and has like minded people around him.”
Alan concludes, “I am enjoying my time at Russell Lodge so far and looking forward to the social events taking place.”
Alan served in the RAF as a co pilot flight engineer flying on special operations with 214 Squadron and flying American B17 Fortress aircrafts and was engaged as a decoy drawing enemy aircraft away from the Lancaster formations. Alan also worked for Concorde and was involved in the first publicity launch, selecting VIP and celebrity passengers for its first flight. Alan has models of all the aircraft he has flown or been involved with in his new apartment at Russell Lodge.
Russell Lodge is a beautiful development of 41 one and two bedroom retirement apartments located just off the high street in Fleet. The Lodge has an Owners’ Lounge, which is for use by all the owners as a casual meeting place or for organised events and there is also a Guest Suite for visiting family or friends.
Russell Lodge is already 50% sold and prices start at £304,950 for a one bedroom apartment. For more information, please visit the Show Complex, open daily from 10am to 5pm. You can also call 01252 883876.